DFN Project SEARCH interns celebrate graduation at Kings College

June 2, 2025

A project which aims to increase the number of people with learning disabilities who secure employment in the North East of Scotland held its annual graduation ceremony at the University of Aberdeen last week.

The DFN Project SEARCH programme celebrated the achievements of the class of 2024/25 at Kings College Conference Centre on Friday 30 May.

The programme is a collaborative project which provides real-life work experience, combined with training in employability and independent-living skills, to young people with learning disabilities and/or autistic spectrum conditions who want to go on to find paid employment.

Samantha Waters, Chief Governance Officer and University Secretary, who presented the Interns with their graduation certificates, said:

“We are delighted to have hosted this unique programme at the University for 12 years. Graduation ceremonies are always special, and this event is a proud moment for the interns, their families, and all our colleagues in the University and beyond who have supported them over the last year.

“Project SEARCH is instrumental in paving the way for change beyond education and the workplace and into society more generally. Our graduating interns are wonderful ambassadors for young people in the workplace who champion neurodiversity and we wish them every success in the future.”

Neil Cowie, Principal of North East Scotland College, where the interns are registered students, said:

“Graduation ceremonies are always one of the highlights of the calendar and, on behalf of everyone at NESCol and all of our project partners, our congratulations go to the class of 2025.

“It is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the past year but also to look forward to the exciting next steps for a group who have shown great dedication, application and skill as they have progressed through the programme. My thanks go to all who have played their part in supporting and mentoring our interns over the past year – we all look forward to following the stories of our graduates as they thrive in the work and in life.”

The ceremony also included contributions from senior representatives from Values Into Action Scotland (VIAS), which holds the licence to operate the DFN Project SEARCH programme in Aberdeen.

Norma Curran, Chief Executive, said:

“As an organisation, VIAS is very proud of the achievements of this year’s interns. It is almost impossible to articulate the growth that we have seen in them throughout the year. They are such amazing role models for DFN Project SEARCH University of Aberdeen and this amazing partnership. We are grateful to everyone involved for delivering this special programme for young people in the north east of Scotland. We are excited to see interns next steps after graduation and wish them all well for a bright future.”

Highlights from the ceremony included contributions from graduating Interns and the premiere of a video showcasing highlights from their Project SEARCH journey.

Thanks were extended at the ceremony to the representatives of all organisations which support the programme, including funders Aberdeenshire Council and Shell UK Ltd, and several local businesses who generously provided sponsorship and external placement opportunities.